January is a classic time for re-think your home. Maybe someone bought you a trendy book on de-cluttering for Christmas. Or perhaps clearing away the Christmas decorations has inspired a new-found minimalism. Whatever the reason, a new year is a great time to clear up, clear out and find bold new inspiration.
I’m starting with de-cluttering. We’ve donated bag and bags of things to charity, and I’m not missing all the things I packed away to make room for the Christmas decorations. I’m going to think long and hard about how many of my supposedly precious possessions I really need to keep.
I’m filling my tidier rooms with fresh blooms and indoor bulbs. White hyacinths are my favourites – although I can’t stand their cloying scent. I can live with the smell though, as I love the classic purity of them. Try removing them from the soil and putting in jam jars around your home. They just need a little water for their roots.
Tulips seem to be around really early this year. And I’m happy to snap up armfuls of these pastel-coloured beauties. They’ve got to be one of the most cheerful blooms on the planet.
I’m also on the look out for new houseplants to add to my collection. Creating an indoor jungle is still very much a thing in 2018, and is part of the larger trend for maximalism.
Maximalism? Weren’t we just talking about minimalism? Well, yes, but 2018 is also the going to be another year for big, bold designs – think clashing wallpapers, palm-print chairs and dark indigo walls. To embrace this style, I think you need to first take a minimalist approach and thin out your possessions. That way, you can embrace statement designs without your home feeling like a chaotic mis-match.
What’s caught my eye?
I’d love some armchairs in bold colours and interesting designs. I don’t have any space in my current house, but if I lived somewhere bigger I’d create a reading are with bookshelves and a couple of quirky armchairs. These two from IKEA very much fit the bill.
Yellow chair, £179, IKEA / Rocking chair, £150, IKEA
Antique shops are also a great place to find interesting designs. A great thing to look for are chests and blanket boxes. I’m always staggered by how expensive new versions of these cost on the high street. Buy a vintage one and you’ll get something that’s solid and full of character. I stumbled across this chest recently for £100 in a local antiques centre and I was very tempted.
What are you planning for your home this year?
OOh I love those arm chairs! And I’m not surprised you were tempted by that trunk, it’s gorgeous. We have SOOO many plans for our home but I think the most urgent is sorting out the understairs cupboard of doom! #homeetc
thanks Becky! We finally got round to sorting out our understaffs cupboard of shame last week – such a relief!
Whilst I don’t know if spring is my favourite season, it’s definitely my favourite time of year for flowers. I love tulips and hyacinths and can’t wait to pick some up! I think this year I’d love to focus on getting a lot of the little jobs done that I’ve been putting off for ages. Thank you for linking up to #HomeEtc X
I’m definitely with you on the tulips and hyacinths. I have them around the house too lately but teamed with scented candles. I love the flicker of candlelight on a dark morning or a dull afternoon. #HomeEtc